In the rural village of Dharmapur – III in the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh, a new league of smallholder farmers is forging a path of financial prosperity through collective farming, a strategy employed to safeguard their local identity against encroaching agribusinesses. This innovative approach not only addresses individual farming challenges but establishes a sustainable income source, strengthening both the farmers and their families against external pressures.

In the face of mounting challenges, the collective efforts of the smallholders help defend their identity against large agribusinesses by pooling resources, knowledge, and skills to cultivate crops collectively on shared land. This approach fosters a sense of community and serves as a powerful defence mechanism. By consolidating assets such as land, equipment, and labour, farmers achieve economies of scale, reducing individual financial burdens and accessing advanced tools. Knowledge-sharing enhances agricultural expertise, enabling quick adaptation to industry changes. Skill-sharing contributes to a well-rounded group, improving pest management and irrigation techniques. Beyond the farm, joint marketing and access to markets allow the collective to bargain better prices and explore new opportunities. This multifaceted approach not only boosts productivity and cuts costs but also empowers smallholder farmers against external pressures, ensuring resilience in the face of large agribusiness dominance. Caritas India FARM NE IV program has been promoting this strategy since its inception to see the desirable change.

Seva Kendra Arunachal East (SKAE), Caritas India partner under the FARM NE program is playing a vital role in fostering sustainable farming techniques among smallholders. Techniques such as crop diversification, organic farming, and water conservation were imparted, emphasizing the unique benefits of collective farming.

Mintu Moshahari, Field Programme Associate (FPA) FARM NE – IV articulated, “The success of this collective model lies in its ability to empower smallholder farmers by offering opportunities for economic growth and social development. Through their combined efforts, they negotiate better prices and secure bulk orders, not only enhancing income but also providing stability and financial security.”

In the dynamic market, the produce from collective farming stands out as a beacon of sustainability and environmental consciousness. The focal point of this distinction lies in the organic element meticulously integrated into the farming practices of these smallholder farmers. Their commitment to environment-friendly cultivation methods not only yields a unique and biodiverse range of produce but also serves as a testament to the preservation of traditional farming practices ingrained in their cultural heritage. By prioritizing organic elements, these farmers not only deliver exceptional quality but also contribute to the broader goal of fostering a more sustainable and eco-conscious agricultural ecosystem. The market is thereby enriched with a diversity of offerings, each telling a story of responsible farming and a harmonious coexistence with the environment.

In conclusion, the smallholder farmers of Dharmapur – III illuminate the transformative potential of collective work, not just as an income generator but as a powerful catalyst for collaboration, innovation, and resilience. Through this model, they not only improve their livelihoods but also champion the preservation of traditional farming practices, staunchly rooted in their cultural identity.